You’ve heard it before: “Attitude is everything. It’s not what happens to you that matters; it’s how your mind looks at what happens.”  Life is about ‘attitude’.

     From where I sit, it’s getting increasingly more difficult to maintain a positive mental attitude!  Traffic is stressful.  Responsible customer service rarely occurs.  People are over-worked and struggling financially.  It’s becoming very difficult for individuals to maintain a balanced life style.

      When I arrive at the gym at 7:30 for my morning wokout, a dedicated group of early risers has already worked out, showered, dressed and are on their way to face the daily challenges of their jobs!  I bet in addition to feeling strong and healthy, this committed band of exercise devotees begin the day with a positive attitude because they’re taking time to take care of their health.  It’s a lessfon for all of us to consider.

     Attitude is an inside job.  It’s how you respnd to conditions out of your control.  “It is what it is.”  The challenge for most of us, including myself, is how to prevent external situations from impacting our attitude.  Being positive requires work and a consciencious decision.  It’s telling yourself that no matter what is going on outside I will remain positive.

     I’ve decided to make having a positive attitude a goal for one week.  For 7 days, regardless of what happens, I am going to sail through life’s annoyances.  Whether it’s a delivery that doesn’t arrive at the scheduled time, an unresonsive customer service representative, a long, slow moving postal line, usual Atlanta traffic or an important appointment that gets cancelled at the last minute, nothing is going to disturb my inner peace.   I am going to remain determined to strengthen my mental toughness.  I am going to maintain a positive mental attitude.  It’s all about focus.  Will you join me?  One week at a time!  Excuses are not an option.  Action counts!

        You’ve heard the message!  You HAVE to network to expand business!  When you build relationships, you create top of mind awareness.  When someone needs the product or service you provide, you want them to immediately think of you.  What can you implement during and after networking events that can begin laying the foundation for better results?

             Focusing on the following strategies with conviction and consistency, will help you stand out in a crowded marketplace.  They are:   initiate conversations, be memorable and follow up.  Exchanging business cards will not get you the results you want.  It’s the positive impression you leave behind that is critical to the outcome you want.

             Ever been to a networking event and find yourself feeling isolated and conspicuous?  Ever notice someone else that is also by him/herself?  In both circumstances, initiating a conversation is the perfect door opener.  When you rescue someone, they will remember you.  Extend your hand, ask about their profession, what they may have done previously, how they got started, what they enjoy most about their work, etc.  It is likely that person will return the favor and give you a chance to talk about your dealership.  Then exchange business cards.

             Want to be memorable?  Be a great listener.  Use eye contact.  Wear something unusual that creates curiosity.   Offer compliments.  Volunteer.  Extend invitations.  Express gratitude. 

             The sale is in the follow up.  Introduce someone you meet to someone you know.  Invite someone you know to someone they need to meet.  If warranted, reach out within 48 hours – a written note on your logo letterhead, a phone call or email.  Do what you say you’re going to do.  Share an article of value.  Find a reason to stay connected. 

             People do business with people who bring value, who show interest in them and who exemplify integrity above all other attributes.  Be that person and anticipate increasing sales.